Former MATA Safety Officer Arrested for DUI, Sparking Safety Concerns within Transit Authority

Former MATA Safety Chief Faces DUI Charges

Memphis, Tenn. – In a surprising turn of events, the Memphis Area Transit Authority (MATA) is under scrutiny following the arrest of its now-former chief safety officer, Edwina Hankins. This incident, which occurred last month, has raised concerns about safety protocols within the transit authority.

Details of the Arrest

According to reports from the Hernando Police Department, the 44-year-old Hankins was charged with driving under the influence (DUI), failure to yield, reckless driving, and driving on the wrong side of the road on August 4. The police said that during the incident, she activated the lights on her take-home vehicle while being pulled over, which adds a layer of complexity to an already troubling situation.

The authorities also noted that Hankins was released on a $1,250 bond after her arrest. This incident is not her first brush with the law—court records show a troubling history of similar driving offenses, including a significant DUI conviction in 2015. During that arrest, Memphis police observed her driving erratically in the Raleigh area and discovered she had been drinking on Beale Street.

Past Offenses

Hankins was sentenced to nearly a year of local confinement following the 2015 conviction. The details of her past incidents illustrate a pattern of concerning behavior behind the wheel, raising questions about her suitability for an executive position within MATA, particularly one focused on safety.

City Council Discussion

This week, the Memphis City Council met to discuss various issues, including Hankins’ recent arrest. MATA officials provided insights into the implications of the situation, emphasizing that public safety must remain a top priority. However, when asked about Hankins’ departure, MATA only confirmed she is no longer an employee, citing personnel matters, which leaves many questions unanswered.

During the committee discussions, it was revealed that aside from Hankins, only the CEO and CFO of MATA are allowed to have take-home vehicles. This raises further concerns about accountability and the protocols in place for employees who drive such vehicles, especially in roles where safety is paramount.

Community Reaction

The Memphis community has expressed mixed feelings regarding this incident. Many residents are alarmed that a chief safety officer could be involved in such reckless behavior. Their concerns highlight a broader issue about trust in public transportation leadership. “How can we expect our safety to be in good hands if the person in charge doesn’t follow the rules themselves?” asked one local resident. It’s a valid point and one that many are contemplating as they process this news.

As this story unfolds, the community is left wondering what steps MATA will take to ensure that leadership is held to the highest standards of safety and responsibility. The incident with Hankins may also prompt a review of MATA’s policies regarding take-home vehicles and alcohol consumption for all employees.

Looking Ahead

It’s essential for MATA and the city council to address these serious issues openly. Keeping the public informed about the measures taken in light of this incident will be crucial in rebuilding trust. Whether it leads to tighter regulations or a complete overhaul of the current policies in place, one thing is certain: the safety of the public must always come first. As this story continues to develop, we’ll be monitoring the situation closely.